At a screening of scenes from the newly converted 3D version of ‘Titanic’, Landau spilt the beans to Bleeding Cool and let it known that ‘Avatar 2’ is “four years away.” Originally the sequel was earmarked to be released in December 2014, but with this news, it looks like fans won’ be able to return to Pandora until 2016.

No explanation was given as to why the long(er) wait but considering some of the camera techniques and special effects that director James Cameron wants to do has yet to be invented, he may need the time to develop the equipment and methods needed to bring his vision of the sequel to life. This was confirmed by Landau when he promised that ‘Avatar 2’ would be a showcase for advanced technology. Cameron has already spoken about pushing the boundaries of 3D technology and has repeatedly talked about wanting to create a way to show the movie at a higher frame per second so that what is shown would look more realistic.

Coincidentally, “Avatarland” at Disney’s Animal Kingdom (which is scheduled to begin construction in 2013) is projected to open to the public sometime in 2016 – just in time for the sequel’s release. Although this may not have been arranged by the producers, it does make for an excellent marketing PR plan for both the film and the attraction.

At least we won’t have to wait that long for ‘Avatar 3’ as it is still on the books to be shot back to back so we can expect it to be released a year after ‘Avatar 2’.